First Death Linked to Meat Allergy from Ticks

Researchers reported the first known death from a meat allergy. A New Jersey man died from alpha-gal syndrome after eating red meat. Lone Star tick bites can cause this serious allergy. The tick's bite makes people allergic to many red meats.

More than 100,000 people in the U.S. have this allergy. Experts say this is the first clearly documented death. Other deaths may have happened but were not fully investigated. Greater awareness can help prevent future tragedies.

The man was a healthy airline pilot, 47 years old. He rarely ate red meat, but had a hamburger. Hours later, he became very sick and passed away. Blood tests showed he had alpha-gal syndrome.

People with this allergy can feel bad with stomach pain. Symptoms include hives, nausea, and trouble breathing. Reactions usually start many hours after eating meat. This is different from other common food allergies.

The number of alpha-gal syndrome cases is growing today. This is partly because ticks are spreading to new areas. Doctors are learning more about it and can order tests. Increased knowledge can help save lives.